Dr Bailey, a former chair and deputy chair of GPC Wales and current negotiator, said he was ‘absolutely delighted’ by his election. ‘Doctors across Wales are facing a number of challenges’, he said. ‘Their workload is stretched to the limit, many report feeling undervalued and isolated, and despite investment in the NHS it is not possible to keep up with the rising demand.

‘I’m committed to working proactively with Welsh council members to ensure we champion the views of our members, their patients, and play a leading role in developing a high quality and sustainable NHS.’

Dr Bailey has been a GP partner for 30 years and works in Gwent. He has served on GPC Wales since 1986, was chair from 2007 to 2013 and deputy from 2003 to 2007 and 2013 to 2017. He has been deputy chair of BMA’s Welsh council since 2013.

BMA Cymru Wales national director Rachel Podolak said: ‘I would like to congratulate David and Sara on their elections. Both have served BMA Cymru Wales and patients well over the years and will continue to do so. I look forward to working with them in their new roles.

'I would also like to pay tribute to Dr Philip Banfield. He has served tirelessly during his term of office and contributed greatly to the health debate, ensuring that the interests of doctors and patients in Wales were heard at the highest levels.’

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